Black plate (400,1)
[ Edit: 2013/ 10/ 21 Model: Y51-D ]
5-98Starting and driving
Y51D-V-E01-86A44992-7267-42A5-98A1-F79018080BEF
BRAKING PRECAUTIONSY51D-V-E01-306DF583-15A7-4F2E-A62C-BF5322FC38D7The brake system has two separate hy-
draulic circuits. If one circuit malfunctions,
you will still have braking at two wheels.
Vacuum assisted brakesY51D-V-E01-78C52DD3-F84F-4DBD-A69F-5E2253E57FCEThe brake booster aids braking by using
engine vacuum. If the engine stops, you
can stop the vehicle by depressing the
brake pedal. However, greater foot pres-
sure on the brake pedal will be required to
stop the vehicle and the stopping distance
will be longer.
When the brake pedal is depressed slowly
and firmly, you may hear a clicking noise
and feel a slight pulsation. This is normal
and indicates that the Brake Assist System
is operating.
Wet brakesY51D-V-E01-4164933E-9063-4069-9B0B-00C0D135CBA1When the vehicle is washed or driven
through water, the brakes may get wet.
As a result, your braking distance will be
longer and the vehicle may pull to one side
during braking.
To dry brakes, drive the vehicle at a safe
speed while lightly tapping the brake pedal
to heat-up the brakes. Do this until the
brakes return to normal. Avoid driving thevehicle at high speeds until the brakes
function correctly.
PARKING BRAKE BREAK-INY51D-V-E01-8D2FFD7C-4467-45F7-A514-CBBDEBD1F7FBBreak in the parking brake shoes whenever
the stopping effect of the parking brake is
weakened or whenever the parking brake
shoes and/or drums/rotors are replaced,
in order to assure the best braking
performance.
This procedure is described in the vehicle
service manual and can be performed by
an INFINITI retailer.
Using the brakesY51D-V-E01-CBE6144D-573B-4C4C-8A27-7992EBD125D3Avoid resting your foot on the brake pedal
while driving. This will cause overheating
of the brakes, wearing out the brake and
pads faster and reduce gas mileage.
To help save the brakes and to prevent the
brakes from overheating, reduce speed
and downshift to a lower gear before going
down a slope or long grade. Overheated
brakes may reduce braking performance
and could result in loss of vehicle control.
WARNING
.
While driving on a slippery surface, be
careful when braking, accelerating or
downshifting. Abrupt braking or accel-
erating could cause the wheels to skid
and result in an accident.
. If the engine is not running or is turned
off while driving, the power assist for
the brakes will not work. Braking will be
harder.
BRAKE SYSTEM
Condition:
Black plate (401,1)
[ Edit: 2013/ 10/ 21 Model: Y51-D ]
Y51D-V-E01-F6785775-3925-43E5-BB5B-DA5F01739940
BRAKE ASSISTY51D-V-E01-3F9393D9-D02F-4462-8A83-9E9A6FD7B50AWhen the force applied to the brake pedal
exceeds a certain level, the Brake Assist is
activated generating greater braking force
than a conventional brake booster even
with light pedal force.
WARNING
The Brake Assist is only an aid to assist
braking operation and is not a collision
warning or avoidance device. It is the
driver’s responsibility to stay alert, drive
safely and be in control of the vehicle at all
times.
PREVIEW FUNCTION (Intelligent
Cruise Control system equipped
models)
Y51D-V-E01-9D06FB2F-CF8A-451A-89F8-4E902FECFF6CWhen the Preview Function identifies the
need to apply emergency braking by
sensing a vehicle ahead in the same lane
and the distance and relative speed from
it, it applies the brake pre-pressure before
the driver depresses the brake pedal and
helps improve brake response by reducing
pedal free play..
This system will not operate when the
vehicle is moving at approximately 20
MPH (32 km/h) or less.
. The pre-pressure function ceases when
the following conditions are met:
1) When the driver depresses the
accelerator pedal or the brake
pedal.
2) If the driver does not operate the accelerator or brake pedal within
approximately 1 second.
SSD0338
.The sensor will not detect:
1) Pedestrians or objects in the road- way
2) Oncoming vehicles in the same lane
3) Motorcycles traveling offset in the travel lane as illustrated
WARNING
. This system is only an aid to assist
braking operation and is not a collision
warning or avoidance device. It is the
driver’s responsibility to stay alert, drive
safely and be in control of the vehicle at
Starting and driving5-99
BRAKE ASSIST
Condition:
Black plate (402,1)
[ Edit: 2013/ 10/ 21 Model: Y51-D ]
5-100Starting and driving
all times.
. As there is a performance limit to the
Preview Function, never rely solely on
this system. This system does not
correct careless inattentive or absent-
minded driving, or overcome poor visi-
bility in rain, fog, or other bad weather.
Reduce vehicle speed by depressing the
brake pedal, in order to maintain a safe
distance between vehicles.
. The system may not detect the vehicle in
front of you in certain road or weather
conditions. The Preview Function may
not operate properly under the following
conditions. The vehicle is still driveable
under normal conditions and the Brake
Assist will operate.
—When rain, snow or dirt adhere to
the system sensor
—When strong light (for example, atsunrise or sunset) is directly shining
on the front of the vehicle
—Winding or hilly roads may causethe sensor to temporarily not detect
a vehicle in the same lane or may
detect objects or vehicles in other
lanes.
—Vehicle position in the lane maycause the sensor to temporarily not
detect a vehicle in the same lane or
may detect objects or vehicles in
other lanes.
SSD0471
Warning light and displayY51D-V-E01-DB5ED500-4C68-479F-9197-379EA1E778CDWhen the Preview Function is not operating
properly, a chime sounds and the system
warning light (orange) will come on.
Action to take:
GUID-CA441E56-2FD0-4540-A74C-DB510E9F7AE0If the warning light comes on, park the
vehicle in a safe place. Turn the engine off,
restart the engine and resume driving.
If the indicator stays on, it may indicate
that the Preview Function is malfunction-
ing (the brake is operative). Although the
Vehicle is still driveable under normal
conditions, have the vehicle checked at
an INFINITI retailer.
Condition:
Black plate (404,1)
[ Edit: 2013/ 10/ 21 Model: Y51-D ]
5-102Starting and driving
WARNING
Do not pump the brake pedal. Doing so may
result in increased stopping distances.
Self-test featureY51D-V-E01-9FAB00BB-F2BE-4168-BD75-236754B398C1The ABS includes electronic sensors, elec-
tric pumps, hydraulic solenoids and a
computer. The computer has a built-in
diagnostic feature that tests the system
each time you start the engine and move
the vehicle at a low speed in forward or
reverse. When the self-test occurs, you may
hear a“clunk” noise and/or feel a pulsa-
tion in the brake pedal. This is normal and
does not indicate a malfunction. If the
computer senses a malfunction, it switches
the ABS off and illuminates the ABS
warning light on the instrument panel.
The brake system then operates normally,
but without anti-lock assistance.
If the ABS warning light illuminates during
the self-test or while driving, have the
vehicle checked by an INFINITI retailer.
Normal operationY51D-V-E01-97EC20E5-32E3-4D14-80B0-197E7EAA54F0The ABS operates at speeds above 3 to 6
MPH (5 to 10 km/h).
When the ABS senses that one or more
wheels are close to locking up, the actuator
rapidly applies and releases hydraulic
pressure. This action is similar to pumping
the brakes very quickly. You may feel a
pulsation in the brake pedal and hear a
noise from under the hood or feel a
vibration from the actuator when it is
operating. This is normal and indicates
that the ABS is operating properly. How-
ever, the pulsation may indicate that road
conditions are hazardous and extra care is
required while driving.
Y51D-V-E01-4A9596A2-6386-4C22-A04D-18A64B158580The Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system
uses various sensors to monitor driver
inputs and vehicle motion. Under certain
driving conditions, the VDC system helps
to perform the following functions.
. Controls brake pressure to reduce
wheel slip on one slipping drive wheel
so power is transferred to a non
slipping drive wheel on the same axle.
. Controls brake pressure and engine
output to reduce drive wheel slip based
on vehicle speed (traction control func-
tion).
. Controls brake pressure at individual
wheels and engine output to help the
driver maintain control of the vehicle in
the following conditions:
— understeer (vehicle tends to not
follow the steered path despite
increased steering input)
— oversteer (vehicle tends to spin due
to certain road or driving condi-
tions).
The VDC system can help the driver to
maintain control of the vehicle, but it
cannot prevent loss of vehicle control in
all driving situations.
When the VDC system operates, the VDC
warning light
in the instrument panel
VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL (VDC) SYSTEM
Condition:
Black plate (405,1)
[ Edit: 2013/ 10/ 21 Model: Y51-D ]
flashes so note the following:
.The road may be slippery or the system
may determine some action is required
to help keep the vehicle on the steered
path.
. You may feel a pulsation in the brake
pedal and hear a noise or vibration
from under the hood. This is normal
and indicates that the VDC system is
working properly.
. Adjust your speed and driving to the
road conditions.
See “Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) warn-
ing light” (P.2-16).
If a malfunction occurs in the system, the
VDC warning light
illuminates in the
instrument panel. The VDC system auto-
matically turns off.
The VDC OFF switch is used to turn off the
VDC system. The VDC off indicator light
illuminates to indicate the VDC system is
off. When the VDC switch is used to turn off
the system, the VDC system still operates
to prevent one drive wheel from slipping by
transferring power to a non slipping drive
wheel. The VDC warning light
flashes if
this occurs. All other VDC functions are off,
except for rise-up and build-up and brake
force distribution, and the VDC warning light
will not flash. The VDC system is
automatically reset to on when the ignition
switch is placed in the off position then
back to the on position.
See “Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) warn-
ing light” (P.2-16) and “Vehicle Dynamic
Control (VDC) off indicator light” (P.2-19).
The computer has a built-in diagnostic
feature that tests the system each time you
start the engine and move the vehicle
forward or in reverse at a slow speed.
When the self-test occurs, you may hear a
“clunk” noise and/or feel a pulsation in the
brake pedal. This is normal and is not an
indication of a malfunction.
ACTIVE TRACE CONTROL (if so
equipped)
Y51D-V-E01-B5B4CBB7-02DE-42E3-B478-AAEA8DEBF723This system senses driving based on the
driver’s steering and acceleration/braking
patterns, and controls brake pressure at
individual wheels and engine output to
help smooth vehicle response.
When the drive mode selector switch is set
to the “SPORT” mode, the amount of brake
control provided by active trace control is
reduced.
When the VDC OFF switch is used to turn off
the VDC system, the active trace control system is also turned off.
If the active trace control is not functioning
properly, the IBA OFF indicator light illumi-
nates in the instrument panel.
RISE-UP AND BUILD-UPY51D-V-E01-87710884-81A9-4A5A-9076-A774904FE42DThe system gradually adjusts braking
power during normal braking to help
provide an enhanced brake feel.
BRAKE FORCE DISTRIBUTIONY51D-V-E01-5B46CABC-FBC6-4BB8-9C50-B12A7A558D2EDuring braking while driving through turns,
the system optimizes the distribution of
force to each of the four wheels depending
on the radius of the turn.
WARNING
.
The VDC system is designed to help the
driver maintain stability but does not
prevent accidents due to abrupt steering
operation at high speeds or by careless
or dangerous driving techniques. Reduce
vehicle speed and be especially careful
when driving and cornering on slippery
surfaces and always drive carefully.
. The active trace control (if so equipped),
rise-up and build-up and brake force
distribution systems may not be effec-
Starting and driving5-103
Condition:
Black plate (406,1)
[ Edit: 2013/ 10/ 21 Model: Y51-D ]
5-104Starting and driving
tive depending on the driving condition.
Always drive carefully and attentively.
. Do not modify the vehicle’s suspension.
If suspension parts such as shock
absorbers, struts, springs, stabilizer
bars, bushings and wheels are not
INFINITI recommended for your vehicle
or are extremely deteriorated, the VDC
system may not operate properly. This
could adversely affect vehicle handling
performance, and the VDC warning light
may illuminate.
. If brake related parts such as brake
pads, rotors and calipers are not INFINITI
recommended or are extremely deterio-
rated, the VDC system may not operate
properly and the VDC warning light
may illuminate.
. If engine control related parts are not
INFINITI recommended or are extremely
deteriorated, the VDC warning light
may illuminate.
. When driving on extremely inclined
surfaces such as higher banked corners,
the VDC system may not operate prop-
erly and the VDC warning light
may
illuminate. Do not drive on these types
of roads. .
When driving on an unstable surface
such as a turntable, ferry, elevator or
ramp, the VDC warning light
may
illuminate. This is not a malfunction.
Restart the engine after driving onto a
stable surface.
. If wheels or tires other than the INFINITI
recommended ones are used, the VDC
system may not operate properly and
the VDC warning light
may illumi-
nate.
. The VDC system is not a substitute for
winter tires or tire chains on a snow
covered road.
Y51D-V-E01-B2E44199-DFC9-456A-A2F7-D14ECC3D735F
WARNING
.Never rely solely on the hill start assist
system to prevent the vehicle from
moving backward on a hill. Always drive
carefully and attentively. Depress the
brake pedal when the vehicle is stopped
on a steep hill. Be especially careful
when stopped on a hill on frozen or
muddy roads. Failure to prevent the
vehicle from rolling backwards may
result in a loss of control of the vehicle
and possible serious injury or death.
. The hill start assist system is not
designed to hold the vehicle at a
standstill on a hill. Depress the brake
pedal when the vehicle is stopped on a
steep hill. Failure to do so may cause the
vehicle to roll backwards and may result
in a collision or serious personal injury.
. The hill start assist system may not
prevent the vehicle from rolling back-
wards on a hill under all load or road
conditions. Always be prepared to de-
press the brake pedal to prevent the
vehicle from rolling backwards. Failure to
do so may result in a collision or serious
personal injury.
HILL START ASSIST SYSTEM
Condition:
Black plate (420,1)
[ Edit: 2013/ 10/ 21 Model: Y51-D ]
6-10In case of emergency
SCE0886
VK56VD engine
SCE0884
VQ37VHR engine
WARNING
Always follow the instructions below. Failure
to do so could result in damage to the
charging system and cause personal injury.
1. If the booster battery is in anothervehicle
*A, position the two vehicles
(
*Aand*B) to bring their batteries
into close proximity to each other.
Do not allow the two vehicles to touch.
2. Apply parking brake. Move the shift lever to the P (Park) position. Switch off
all unnecessary electrical systems
(light, heater, air conditioner, etc.).
3. Remove vent caps on the battery (if so equipped). Cover the battery with a
firmly wrung out moist cloth
*Cto
reduce explosion hazard.
4. Connect jumper cables in the sequence as illustrated (
*1?*2?*3?*4).
For models with a steering wheel lock
mechanism: If the battery is discon-
nected or discharged, the steering
wheel will lock and cannot be turned.
Supply power using jumper cables
before pushing the ignition switch
Condition:
Black plate (439,1)
[ Edit: 2013/ 10/ 21 Model: Y51-D ]
8 Maintenance and do-it-yourself
Maintenance requirement...
.................................... 8-2
Scheduled maintenance ...
.................................. 8-2
General maintenance ...
....................................... 8-2
Where to go for service ...
................................... 8-2
General maintenance ...
........................................... 8-2
Explanation of maintenance items ...
................... 8-2
Maintenance precautions ...
..................................... 8-5
Engine compartment check locations ...
................... 8-7
VK56VD engine ...
............................................... 8-7
VQ37VHR engine ...
............................................. 8-9
Engine cooling system ...
....................................... 8-12
Checking engine coolant level ...
....................... 8-13
Changing engine coolant ...
............................... 8-14
Engine oil ...
.......................................................... 8-14
Checking engine oil level ...
............................... 8-15
Changing engine oil and filter ...
....................... 8-15
Automatic transmission fluid ...
............................. 8-18
Power steering fluid ...
........................................... 8-18
Brake fluid ...
......................................................... 8-19
Brake fluid ...
.................................................... 8-19
Window washer fluid ...
......................................... 8-19
Battery ...
.............................................................. 8-20
Jump starting ...
................................................ 8-22
Variable voltage control system ...
......................... 8-22 Drive belts
...
........................................................ 8-22
Spark plugs ...
...................................................... 8-23
Replacing spark plugs ...
................................. 8-23
Air cleaner ...
........................................................ 8-24
Windshield wiper blades ...
................................... 8-25
Cleaning ...
...................................................... 8-25
Replacing ...
..................................................... 8-26
Brakes ...
.............................................................. 8-27
Self-adjusting brakes ...
................................... 8-27
Brake pad wear warning ...
.............................. 8-27
Fuses ...
................................................................ 8-28
Engine compartment ...
.................................... 8-28
Passenger compartment ...
............................... 8-29
Intelligent Key battery replacement ...
................... 8-30
Lights ...
................................................................ 8-33
Headlights ...
................................................... 8-33
Exterior and interior lights ...
........................... 8-34
Wheels and tires ...
............................................... 8-36
Tire pressure ...
............................................... 8-36
Tire labeling ...
................................................ 8-40
Types of tires ...
............................................... 8-42
Tire chains ...
................................................... 8-43
Changing wheels and tires ...
........................... 8-43
Condition: